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This is very strange and happens only to downloaded file (free papers from pubmed).
When I download a file from pubmed central (NIH biomedical publications) I save as the file in my reference folder. Once saved, I can not change the file name anymore - either from finder or get info panel. I checked the file privilege and ownership they looks fine (the parent folder's ownership and privilege are also consistent). Even more strange is when I drag the file to another folder, instead move it creates a duplicate copy (like option+move). I also repaired the HD permission and nothing changes...
Have anyone experienced similar thing? This issue drives me crazy!
This happens on my 13" MB 2.4 GHz running 10.5.8.
TIA
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When you look at it in the Terminal, what are the privileges on the "reference folder?" Is there an at-symbol (@) associated with the directory-listing?
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Don't know how to access the file directory in Terminal... I only did the "Get info"...
BTW, what does the "@" mean (if it is there) and how did it get there the first place?
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In the Get Info did you also look at the "Locked" checkbox? A locked file will behave exactly as you described (but there might also be other things that would exhibit the same behavior too).
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No. Neither the folder nor the files are locked (locked box UNchecked)...
That is why it is soooo bizarre...
BTW, I have not tried other downloaded files. But I did try to move other files (other types, too) in and out of that folder and they seem OK.
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If you select 'Get Info' there is, at the bottom, 'Ownership & Permissions'. You should be able to change the permissions so that you can 'Read & Write'. With that change you should be able to change the name.
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The at (@) symbol signifies an extended attribute. A plus (+) signifies an ACL.
Both can result in problems copying files. ACLs in particular override normal Unix permissions. Some extended attributes are normal on certain files such as those with custom icons, but others may be inappropriately attached.
In the Terminal, type "ls -le " (no quotes and don't forget to put a space at the end) and then drag the icon for the parent folder onto the Terminal window and tap the RETURN key on your keyboard. It should give you a list of the contents of that directory. Look for the at and plus signs.
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Don't know why, this doesn't happen when I've downloaded PubMed files. Guess you could just open the PDF and then "save-as." Not very elegant, but effective.
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Thanks for everyone's inputs.
JEBB:
the ownership box is the first place I went when I first discovered this problem. Even I messed around with these settings (new owners, allow enclosed items...) and nothing changed. The files allows me to change still behave normally and those I have troubles with remain stubborn.
Doc:
Thanks for the tips and the explanation. I did what you said and found there are a few with "+" and some with "@". I don't know how they got there the first place and how to get rid of them (if they are the criminals). However, their appearance seem nothing related to the file name behavior...
Jardster:
Thanks for the suggestion. That was what I have been doing. It is annoying but work...
Again, thanks for everyone's suggestion. I am still looking for a cure...
